Israel Quote by Jean-Michel Oughourlian
““Friedrich Hacker says: “Many Arab intellectuals…consider the Arab mentality, which attributes to the written word and to speech a more than symbolic importance, a magical importance, as a dangerous national passion and as a sickness. For this mentality, it suffices to say something for there to be no need of doing it. Words do not announce acts and do not prepare them, they replace them.”9””
About This Quote
Some cultures value words over deeds, treating speech as a powerful, sometimes dangerous, national passion that can replace action.
In simple terms: Words are prized over deeds, creating a dangerous culture.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the limits of rhetoric; act.
Themes
culture
communication
identity
action
danger
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- political speeches
- educational settings
- family discussions
- media analysis
Key Concepts
symbolism
nationalism
oral tradition
passion
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this mindset affect progress?
- Can rhetoric be balanced with concrete steps?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on words can lead to inaction.
![“[Islam] Leaves no room of human legislation in an Islamic state, because herein all legislative functions vest in God and the only function left for Muslims lies in their observance of the God-made law.” quote by Abul A'la Maududi](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/704/abul-a-la-maududi-51903_function_islam-leaves-no-room-of-human-legislatio_886.jpg)
